Mediterranean Rosemary Chickpea Latkes

Mediterranean Chickpea Latkes

🕒 Cook Time: 3 minutes
🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 13 minutes
🥄 Servings: 24 latkes

Description:

These Mediterranean Chickpea Latkes, inspired by a recipe from Bon Appetit (2001), boast a delightful fusion of flavors reminiscent of both the Mediterranean and Indian cuisines. They’re simply irresistible! For an extra burst of freshness, top them with sour cream or a dollop of plain yogurt mixed with freshly chopped mint leaves.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 ounces) garbanzo beans
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
• 3 eggs
• 6 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 6 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
• Pomegranate seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chickpea Batter:

   • In a food processor, blend the garbanzo beans, garlic, and fresh rosemary until you achieve a coarse paste-like consistency.

2. Blend in Eggs and Olive Oil:

   • Add the eggs, 6 tablespoons of water, and the extra virgin olive oil to the processor. Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth and well combined.

3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:

   • Add the all-purpose flour, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and baking powder to the mixture in the processor. Blend again until all ingredients are fully incorporated and a smooth batter forms.

4. Heat Oil in Skillet:

   • Pour the batter into a mixing bowl. Heat 6 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking.

5. Fry the Latkes:

   • Working in batches, drop heaping tablespoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Cook each side until golden brown, approximately 1 minute per side.

6. Drain and Serve:

   • Using a slotted spatula, transfer the cooked latkes to paper towels to drain any excess oil.

7. Continue Cooking:

   • Add more olive oil to the skillet as needed, ensuring it’s hot before adding additional batter for frying.

8. Final Touches:

   • Once all the latkes are cooked, transfer them to serving plates. Optionally, sprinkle pomegranate seeds over the top for a burst of color and flavor.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Serve the Mediterranean Chickpea Latkes hot, with your choice of toppings such as sour cream or a yogurt-mint mixture.

These delightful latkes are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive Hanukkah celebration or simply a cozy family dinner. Enjoy their unique blend of flavors and textures that will surely tantalize your taste buds!